The remainder of yesterday did continue the way that was previously predicted. The day remained cold and dry. Today is starting the way yesterday's weather was with continued cold and dry weather. This morning a new record cold temperature was set, this morning temperatures reached 5°F breaking the record set in 1926 at the temperature of 10°F. Highs for the day should stay about 15°F below average temperatures.
Current Conditions:
Temperature: 26°F Feels Like: 18°F
Humidity: 69%
Wind Conditions: W 8 mph
Precipitation: 0%
Sky Conditions: sunny with clear skies
Visibility: 10.0 miles
Today in Eau Claire there are similar temperatures compared to yesterday due to the fact that we are in a high pressure system. This high pressure system is causing the cold temperatures, dry, and clear sunny skies weather the Eau Claire area is currently experiencing. he continental polar air mass has sunk down into the Eau Claire area bringing these cold unseasonably temperatures. In Figure 1 it can be clearly seen the polar air mass coming down into the northern states leading to cold temperatures.
Figure 1. Temperature map of the temperatures across the United States today at 8 AM.
Tomorrow's Forecast:
I believe the weather conditions currently being experienced in Eau Claire will last for some of the day. An arctic cold front is predicted to move into the area from out of Canada and cause increasing cloud cover later in the day. This has the possibility to bring rain and snow later this afternoon. Temperatures are projected to reach near 0°F in Eau Claire this weekend. Arctic polar air is predicted to descend into the upper Midwest and northern plains this weekend as shown in Figure 2. these cold temperatures have become a concern for wheat farmers. The warmth experienced in past weeks winter wheat has been growing in Oklahoma and Texas but with the influences of this weeks cold temperatures the wheat will experience freezing during the jointing stage which can risk damage to the crop.
Figure 2. Map of the predicted path arctic polar air will move into the northern plains and upper Midwest this weekend.
Today is National Read a Road Map Day! As a geographer this is practically an everyday activity for me, but if reading maps is not an everyday activity for you dig out some old road maps from the glove box of your car and have a look to celebrate!!
